The frequently inane ramblings of one who isn't always right, but is never actually wrong, either. Topics included might be political, theological, gastronomical, sexual, or even motorcycle-related. All I can guarantee is that ... on second thought, if you want a guarantee, go buy a bloody toaster, and leave me alone!

About Me

Friday, August 26, 2016

August 26, 2016 is the 96th Anniversary of the
19th Amendment, granting women the long-overdue right to vote. This date
was officially designated as Women’s Equality Day in 1971. It is, I
think, only fitting on this day that we commit ourselves to making
women’s equality a reality, rather than just the reason for yet another
designated “special” day. That reality will naturally mean different
things to different people, but there are a few core precepts that
deserve a place on anyone’s list.

– For the abrogation of both
“men’s rights” and “women’s rights,” replacing both with “human rights”
that are acknowledged irrespective of gender. Rights exclusive to one
group or gender cannot exist without denying those rights to the other.

– For ideas to have value on the basis of their logic, benevolence, and
integrity, rather than being accepted in spite of or because of their
having been put forward by a woman or a man. The first step toward the
realization of such a goal is for both men and women to set aside
defensiveness when considering a perspective that appears different on
the surface that our own, and to recognize that using dismissive terms
like “womansplaining” and “mansplaining” fail to further the dialog,
much less the understanding or changing of others’ perspectives.

–
To recognize and address sexism when it taints a discussion or behavior,
but to not strive to brush aside every point of disagreement or every
personal dislike by deeming it an example of sexism. Men and women are
genetically and culturally-inclined to perceive some things differently,
and while the cultural imperatives can be revised over time, genetic
conditioning is the product of many millennia, and therefore slower to
be revised. Both are better discussed and understood than attacked, if
one’s commitment is to achieving gender cooperation and consensus.

–
And ultimately, to strive to be respectful and fair in one’s dealings
with others, including those with whom we disagree. Just as a true
friendship cannot be based in absolute agreement, neither must enmity be
based in different points of view. By granting to others the benefit of
the doubt until such time as it proves unwarranted to do so, we enhance
the likelihood that other people’s understanding will grow more
sophisticated and accepting of us. It is only through such mutual
understanding and respect that we can hope to transcend the ugly
realities of sexism, misogyny, and misandry and enjoy living in a state
of genuine rather than forced or feigned equality.

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